Research by Murdoch students helps police address crime

Murdoch University criminology students have been helping WA Police tackle crime while gaining invaluable work experiences during three-month long internships.

Six Murdoch students have completed placements in WA Police’s Evidence Based Policing (EBP) Internship Program since its inception in July 2015. Looking at a range of policing issues, including domestic violence, these students have contributed to local efforts to integrate international best-practices into Western Australian policing strategies.

The students have applied their research, evaluation, critical analysis and writing skills to various projects, including assessing whether body worn videos and curfew checks are valuable policing tactics. They have also delivered a comprehensive report on restorative justice and have assisted with the development of a crime harm index.

Karyn Brynjolfson, Workforce Consultant (Strategic Human Resources) for WA Police, said the EBP aimed to develop practices that target those areas and people responsible for the most harm in our communities.

“The program aims to provide students an insight into real working life, this includes participating in meetings, being introduced to different parts of the business and gaining an understanding of the professional behaviour and conduct expected of employees at WA Police,” said Ms Brynjolfson.

“The final reports from past internship placements had been of such a high calibre that internship students have been invited to present their findings to an executive committee of senior police.”

Dr Joe Clare from the criminology program offered through Murdoch University’s School of Law said successful completion of the project contributed towards academic credit for the students.

“The aim of these opportunities is to provide Murdoch criminology students with invaluable work integrated learning experiences and useful contacts in industry. The internship unit requires students to complete 130 unpaid work hours in an applied criminal justice setting,” he said.

“This counts towards their degree and helps integrate and apply the theoretical knowledge they’ve gained from the early parts of their studies.

Lucy Stronach, who is studying criminology and security, terrorism and counter terrorism studies, minoring in psychology, said it was an incredible feeling to make a difference in society while a part of the EBP team.

“I was tasked with creating an experiment which would help to reduce domestic burglary in Perth. I analysed data, conducted a literature review and worked with members of WA Police to develop a report which will hopefully be adopted by districts or departments throughout Perth,” she said.

“The results of my experiment could positively impact individuals in Perth, helping to create a safer community. To me, that is something you cannot put a price on,” she said.

Ashley-Marie Walters, who is studying a double major in criminology and psychology at Murdoch, worked on a literature review of domestic violence during her internship.

“I’ve learnt so much, not just about domestic violence but also how to work alone, work with others and work in an office environment,” said Ms Walters. “I’ve learnt about career options, and seen different views of the world. This has definitely changed the way I view my graduation choices.”

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